Dumfries and Galloway Council is delighted to announce that construction has officially commenced on the Dumfries Zero Waste Park (Dumfries ZWP), marking a significant milestone towards the delivery of the region’s Waste, Recycling and Reuse Strategy 2023–2030.
This development of the Dumfries ZWP will deliver a brand-new, modern Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC) at Locharmoss and see the transformation of the refinements hall at the EcoDeco MBT Facility into a dry recyclates bulking facility. These improvements will provide residents with an enhanced recycling experience and support Dumfries and Galloway’s ambitious aims to drive up recycling rates, optimise waste processing, and help deliver on Scotland’s wider circular economy goals.
The strategy, approved by the Council’s Communities Committee on 3 October 2023, focuses on five key themes: Waste Prevention, Reuse and Recycling; optimising kerbside collections; improving Household Waste Recycling Centre experience and efficiency; optimising residual waste processing; and maximising efficiency. The Dumfries ZWP will be a central component in achieving these goals.
The council’s investment of £11.197 million from the approved 10-year Capital Investment Strategy will fund the work, delivering vital infrastructure to support a greener future.
Councillor Ian Blake, Chair of the council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, said:
“The start of construction on the Dumfries Zero Waste Park is a clear demonstration of our council’s commitment to delivering a cleaner, greener future for our communities. This modern facility will not only enhance recycling opportunities for residents but will also ensure we meet our obligations under the Scottish Government’s Circular Economy ambitions.”
Councillor Jackie McCamon, Vice-Chair of the committee, added:
“Our investment in the Dumfries Zero Waste Park reflects a long-term vision for a more sustainable Dumfries and Galloway. We are providing the facilities and services that residents expect, while also supporting our local economy and improving the environment for generations to come.”
The new split-level Locharmoss HWRC will offer improved access, better customer service, and a safer, more efficient site layout, designed to make recycling easier and more intuitive for users. The new bulking facility will also bring significant operational efficiencies, allowing the council to manage and transfer materials more effectively without reliance on the private sector.
Work is expected to complete by the end of September 2026.
